ABSTRACT
Formulations like the above, implying the all-embracing character of Islam, can be found in most studies of Islam and Muslim societies. Islam is thus presented as an ideal type of an' organic' religio-political system (Smith 1974) where religious and political functions are not differentiated but rest within a single structure and no distinctions can be made between the religious institution and the society. The social order is considered to be of divine origin, the ruler derives his authority from a spiritual force, and political leadership is exercised according to religious law and tradition.
